Horizontal drilling is primarily used because it extracts the methane gas present underneath the ice without disrupting the ice seal. An additional bonus here is that extraction of gas in this manner will reduce the buoyancy pressure exerted on the overlying hydrate, so the seal integrity is better preserved as more underlying gases are produced.
Future Technique
Teledyne Isco Syringe Pumps can be used in experiments such as determining phase or relative permeability of core samples by accurately controlling fluid volumes, flow rates, and pressures. They can be used for fluid delivery, overburden pressure, and pressure regulation.
The figure directly above shows two pairs of continuous flow pumps, one pair for receiving and one for delivery. The receive pumps are set in constant pressure mode and will dispense to waste when filled. The switchover between pumps is pulseless, thereby minimizing pressure fluctuations.